India’s First Writer’s Village Opens in Dehradun

India’s first ‘Writer’s Village’ was inaugurated in Dehradun by former President Ram Nath Kovind, along with Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen Gurmeet Singh (retd) and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. This unique village aims to foster creativity and provide a nurturing environment for writers from across the country, establishing Dehradun as a new cultural hub for literary talent.

Key Highlights of the Inauguration

Dignitaries Present

• The inauguration was attended by prominent personalities, including former President Kovind, who lauded the initiative for addressing challenges faced by writers, and CBFC Chairman Prasoon Joshi, who highlighted the need for such secluded spaces for creativity.

Vision 

• Former Chief Minister Nishank, a notable writer himself, conceptualized the village to foster a peaceful atmosphere conducive to literary creation.

Festival Launch and Book Release

• The inaugural event coincided with the ‘Sparsh Himalaya Mahotsav-2024,’ where Nishank’s work, Ram in the Himalayas, was also released.

Purpose and Facilities of the Writer’s Village

Creative Environment

Designed to offer tranquility for writers, the village includes several facilities such as,

• Lekhan Kutir (Writing Cottages)
• Sanjeevani Vatika (Healing Garden)
• Nakshatra and Navgrah Vatika (Astrological Gardens)
• Library and Art Gallery
• Yoga and Meditation Centre
• Discussion Centre and Auditorium
• Ganga and Himalaya Museum

Cultural Exchange 

• Participants from over 65 countries, including 40 attendees from abroad, joined the festivities, showcasing the village’s potential as a hub for cultural exchange.

Statements from Key Leaders

Former President Kovind

• Commended the initiative as a unique platform for writers, artists, and cultural enthusiasts, predicting it will attract tourists due to its distinctive purpose.

Governor Lt Gen Gurmeet Singh

• Noted Uttarakhand’s literary heritage and expressed hope that the village will inspire future generations of writers and poets.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami

• Spoke about Uttarakhand’s rich cultural and natural legacy, which has historically inspired creatives, and expressed optimism for the festival’s impact on local and global cultural dialogue.

Future Significance and Impact

• Former President Kovind anticipates the village will grow as a tourist attraction, combining cultural heritage with artistic engagement.
• The Writer’s Village offers a rare retreat where creative minds can focus deeply on their work, with opportunities for both solitude and cultural connection.
• The project’s global reach has potential to foster collaborative literary and artistic exchanges on an international scale.

Static Points

• Uttrakhand – Dehradun (Capital)
• Chief Minister – Pushkar Singh Dhami
• Governor – Gurmit Singh
• State bird – Himalayan monal